Wedding Planning Strategies
1. Get Organized
Organization is key to a stress free and enjoyable experience for your wedding day. Gather your ideas, your vision, and help from someone with experience!
2. Create a Budget
What are you willing to spend overall on your wedding and what are the most important features of your day? Those are the things where the larger portion of our budget will go. If you're totally clueless as to how much a wedding costs, start checking out local venues websites for a starting point.
2. Create a Timeline
Establish a timeline for wedding planning tasks, like booking your venue, sending out invitations, and finalizing details.
3. Make a Guest List
Compile a list of guests to determine the size of the venue. The more guests you have, the more cost you have, typically. Start with an "A" list for guests, as in the ones that have to be there. A "B" list can be your ideal guest list with everyone included. And then depending on where your budget ends up and what venue you choose, your "C" list are the ones you actually end up with.
4. Choose a Venue
Research and visit potential venues to find the perfect location for your ceremony and reception. Make sure to get contracts and vendor information from venues as well! Most venues have preferred vendors they work with, which is why it's important to book the venue first.
5. Hire your Vendors
Photographer - they tend to need the most advance notice for weddings
Videographer
Catering
Florist
DJ, Photo booth, & any other type of entertainment
Wedding Planner or day of coordinator
Officiant
6. Find your perfect Theme and Style
Decide on a theme or style that reflects your personality and preferences. Every wedding is unique, so don't be afraid to make it your own!
7. Coordinate Logistics
Research the closest accommodations for you and your guests. Your venue may be able to help with this! Decide on timing for the day of the wedding. We like to start with ceremony time and work backwards.
8. Plan the Ceremony
Work with your officiant to outline the ceremony details, including readings and unity if you choose to do one. Pick your songs for walking in, unity, and exit.
9. Send Save the Dates and/or Invitations
Design and send out save the dates first, and then more formal invitations if you choose, ensuring they provide all necessary details. It's a good idea to talk to your venue and planner about what should be included on these.
10. Prepare for the Unexpected
Always have a backup plan "B" in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as bad weather. Your venue can work with you to achieve a plan!
11. Enjoy the Process
Take time to enjoy the planning process and celebrate the journey with your partner. Do all the fun things with your friends to celebrate and plan....you won't regret it!
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